Brakes are essential for ensuring the safety of yourself, other drivers, and pedestrians when operating a motor vehicle. Brake pads typically last anywhere from 25,000 to 70,000 miles before needing replacement, depending on your driving habits and car type.

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We all know that routine auto maintenance is essential, but it’s not always possible to remember all the details from your vehicle’s history. For example, when did you last change your car battery, spark plugs, serpentine belt, or brake pads?

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Nowadays, most states require your vehicle to pass a vehicle emissions inspection, also known as a smog test, to reduce pollution and improve air quality. However, as the time approaches for a vehicle inspection, including emissions testing, car owners may wonder how to pass an emissions test. 

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Engine oil is one of the essential components of your automobile. It lubricates your engine’s moving parts, preventing damage from heat and friction. Without the use of engine oil, your car would suffer significant harm. 

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For the average driver, the inner workings of their vehicle are a mystery that they don’t have the time to grasp fully. However, when they’re on the road, they can pick up on subtle and not-so-subtle cues that their car has an issue that needs to be addressed. One such problem is when your vehicle starts to shake every time you apply the brakes. 

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Whether you’ve just gotten your first car or been a proud vehicle owner for several years, you’ve likely heard that getting regular tire rotations is important. But how often is “regular”? Every six months, two years, more, or less? You want to do everything you can to take care of your car or truck for the long term, but being a vehicle owner can sometimes be confusing. Here’s everything you need to know about scheduling tire rotation services.

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Your car needs more than gasoline to run smoothly — it also needs the right oil. Changing your oil is an essential car maintenance task, and you should schedule regular oil changes in order to keep your car on the road for as long as possible. However, while you can make a quick pit stop to fill up your gas tank as soon as your fuel level is approaching empty, it’s not as easy to know when to change your oil. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “how often should I get an oil change,” this guide is for you! Read on to learn the real facts about oil change intervals.

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If you’re like most vehicle owners, you’re very much aware of the value of keeping your car or truck in good running condition. After all, you depend on your automobile to get you back and forth from work, shopping, school, and more — and no one wants to be left high and dry when their ride breaks down. Taking a proactive approach regarding signs of failing transmission is an essential component of ensuring minimal disruption due to car trouble. Keep in mind that the engine isn’t the only potential trouble spot — it’s also important to be mindful of any possible faulty transmission symptoms.

Read More about Transmission Impossible: 6 Faulty Transmission Symptoms Every Car Owner Should Know

The check engine light can be a great source of frustration and confusion for many drivers. There are numerous reasons why you might see this symbol appear on your dashboard, and these car problems can range from mild to severe. Some drivers may be tempted to disregard this warning sign altogether and continue driving. However, this is a bad idea that can put your safety at risk.

It’s crucial not to ignore your check engine light under any circumstances. If the light is on and you’re not sure why, there are several possible explanations for this. Here’s everything you need to know about monitoring your check engine light and when to schedule engine diagnostic services:

What Does the Check Engine Light Look Like?

To properly address any issues with your vehicle, you need to be able to recognize your car’s check engine light and know where to find it. The light is normally shaped like a standard car engine and is sometimes accompanied by the words “check engine.” Most check engine lights are yellow, orange, or red.

The light is located on your dashboard panel and appears when there’s a problem with your engine. Be sure not to ignore your check engine light if it ever shows up at any time.

Why Is My Check Engine Light On?

Your check engine light will alert you of a problem in one of two ways. Either it will begin blinking or flashing, or it will remain steady. The action you should take is determined by the way the light behaves.

If the light is flashing or blinking, this means your car engine is experiencing a more severe problem. It’s important not to waste time if this happens. Instead, pull over and turn off your engine before having your car towed. You will then be safely transported to a repair facility where an auto mechanic can identify the issue at hand.

If the light remains steady, the problem likely isn’t as urgent as it is with a flashing light. However, you should still be careful not to ignore your check engine light. The best course of action in this scenario is to bring your vehicle to a repair center as soon as possible. Prompt action will help you avoid extra repair costs in the long run.

Addressing the Issue

Now that you know what the purpose of the check engine light is, it’s important to take the right steps to address the issue. First, you need to take a look at the check engine light code, which is found in your vehicle’s computer system. The first option is to use a scan tool to read the code yourself. This is a less costly method that can help give you an idea of what engine problems you’re experiencing.

However, if you want a more accurate diagnosis, it’s best to visit an auto repair shop. A mechanic can get to the root of the problem, whether your gas cap is loose or something is wrong with your spark plug. Not only does an expert help you identify the issue, but they will also propose the ideal solution for your needs.

Stay on the Road Safely With LubeMaster

Whether your check engine light turns yellow, red, or orange, it’s crucial not to ignore your check engine light and to get help immediately. At LubeMaster, we run on-board diagnostics (OBD II) to help get your vehicle up and running in no time. Whether you’re dealing with a faulty oxygen sensor or catalytic converter, our parts stores offer just the solution you need. For more information about our offerings, including vehicle inspections and diagnostics, turn to LubeMaster today!

Caring for your vehicle and ensuring its motor and engine parts enjoy a long, healthy life means choosing the right oil. But what are the differences between synthetic and conventional motor oil? Is one type of oil better than the other? What about the price and performance of synthetic and conventional oils? We’ll address these questions and more to help you extend the life of your engine.

Qualities of Conventional Oil

Manufacturing: Conventional motor oil is made from a natural process by refining crude oil. Because of these natural properties, each batch of conventional oil has impurities.

Price: The cost of conventional oil is about one-third to one-half of synthetic oil. However, check out the performance facts before reaching for this “value” engine oil.

Performance: Conventional oil has been around for a long time and is adequate for lubricating engine components. However, due to impurities in conventional oil, engine sludge (which happens when base oils break down) develops faster and puts your engine at risk. For best results, opt for oil changes every 3,000 miles. Also, extreme temperatures and aggressive driving styles will cause conventional oils to break down more quickly, requiring more frequent oil changes.

Qualities of Synthetic Oil

Manufacturing: Full synthetic motor oils are chemically developed with detergent additives that allow each batch to be uniform in structure. This means far fewer — if any — impurities in a batch of synthetic oil compared to its conventional counterpart.

Price: A huge difference between synthetic and conventional motor oil is the price. The manufacturing process is complicated, which drives the cost up. However, though you may pay more upfront, you’ll save money in the long run as synthetic does a great job of protecting your engine — and your engine will require fewer oil changes over the life of the vehicle.

Performance: Synthetic oil tends to break down more slowly, offering protection long past that 3,000-mile mark. Some full synthetic options can hold up to 10,000 miles before an oil change is needed — especially in modern engines.

Switching to Synthetic Oil

After comparing the differences between synthetic and conventional motor oil, you may consider switching to synthetic motor oil to increase engine performance. This is an easy process if you have a newer model, and your vehicle may not require an engine flush to switch oil types.

However, certain high-mileage vehicles, and those older engines that have never used synthetic, may need a flush or a gradual change over, as they were not made with synthetic oil properties in mind. Your mechanic or manufacturer’s instructions can help you decide if your vehicle requires conventional or synthetic engine oil.

Your LubeMaster technician can also help you choose between full synthetic (which uses the highest quality base oils) and a synthetic blend (a mixture of conventional and synthetic oils).

Get a Full Service Oil Change From LubeMaster

From helping you understand the differences between synthetic and conventional motor oil to performing quick, full-service oil changes and even diagnosing why your check engine light is on, LubeMaster is here for you and the health of your engine, no matter what you drive. Contact our team today for preventative maintenance by certified technicians, where we’ll ensure your oil and other essential fluids are checked and topped off, giving you peace of mind on the road.